Alone with my Father

Da Nang is about as far away from Las Vegas as you can get on Earth. And it is here that I find myself for the one-year anniversary of my dear father's passing.

I arrived in Saigon on the 29th of July after connecting in London. It had been seven months since I'd been back to my homeland, and I'd forgotten the blaring horns at all hours of the morning, the neon lights, the smells and sounds of energy and excitement.

I have to say that I was almost in a fog that first day, partly from jet lag, partly from culture shock, partly from the stifling heat. Mostly for the task at hand - planning the ceremony for my father.

About as far away from Las Vegas as you can get.

This has been a more personal, intimate trip for me than probably any that I've been on in quite a while. I've traveled here to do charity work with my cousin, niece and nephew.

This week, I've been alone in the middle of monks, villagers and children. I've been alone with my father close to me, thinking of him, praying for him. I have had no great expectations for this trip, although I hope for some peace and comfort that can come from all this.

I traveled to the poorest of villages with my Teacher Monk, who has aided me throughout this last year. My Teacher Monk conducted a ceremony for us before we deliver food to the villagers. It was a special time for me, draped in a simple blue cloth, barefoot in the temple as is our custom.

Meeting Teacher Monk's 89-year-old mother.

I met many villagers later that day, young and old, to pass out the much-needed supply of food. One of my favorites was meeting my Teacher Monk's 89-year old mother. Delightful spirit.

I felt whisked from place to place, and these places were strange to me. Yet these were the roads my father walked, the river my father navigated, the aromas my father smelled, the wind across my father's face.

Today, I write these words for me, and I apologize to anyone who may not understand them all. I return to Saigon soon, then Macau in a few weeks. Today, I am here. With him.

-- Liz Lieu

www.LizLieu.net
www.iPokerCal.com

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